Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

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Golden, juicy, and irresistibly garlicky, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is everything a comforting dinner should be. With a rich, buttery sauce infused with roasted garlic, herbs, and nutty Parmesan cheese, it wraps around each tender chicken breast like a warm, savory blanket. The top turns beautifully golden in the oven, thanks to a blend of cheese and a sprinkle of herbs that crisp up to form an addictive crust.

This dish isn’t just about bold flavor; it’s also about ease. With minimal prep and just one baking dish, you can have a hearty meal that looks and tastes like it took hours. Whether you’re serving guests or simply treating yourself on a weeknight, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake delivers that perfect balance of comfort and flavor.

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What Makes This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake So Delicious?

It’s all about that buttery, garlicky sauce and the oven magic. As the chicken bakes, the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese melts and crisps, coating each piece with savory goodness. It feels indulgent, but it’s incredibly straightforward to make.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base. They absorb flavor beautifully and stay juicy when baked properly.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds that signature nutty, salty flavor that defines this bake. It also helps form the golden crust.

Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic for the best punch of flavor. Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but nothing compares to the real deal.

Butter: Melted butter enriches the sauce, helping the garlic flavor permeate the chicken and keeping it moist.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the overall flavor and gives the dish an aromatic lift.

Paprika (Optional): Adds subtle smokiness and deep color to the baked crust.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and seasoning the chicken properly.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich bake and a pop of color for serving.

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How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika if using.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. Stir in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Place the chicken breasts in the prepared dish. Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously on top of each breast, pressing lightly so it sticks.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If the top isn’t golden enough, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dish like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or buttered noodles.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

This chicken bake is best served hot and fresh from the oven, when the cheese topping is still golden and bubbling. Pair it with simple sides like steamed broccoli, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal. It also works well sliced over pasta or tucked into a sandwich bun for a cheesy chicken sandwich.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For freezing, wrap each chicken breast individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Make sure not to overbake it. Use a meat thermometer to pull the chicken out at 165°F, and let it rest before slicing so juices redistribute.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully. Just adjust the bake time slightly as they may cook quicker.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before baking for the best results.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your Parmesan and seasonings are certified gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely. Add quick-cooking veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms around the chicken before baking.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Big Flavor?

If you’re loving this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake, you’ll definitely want to try these savory favorites next:

• Creamy Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff for earthy flavor and cozy vibes.
• Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini for when you’re craving indulgence.
• Tender Beef Bao Buns that bring a soft and savory twist to dinnertime.
• Chicken Street Tacos for a weeknight win packed with zest.
• Teriyaki Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Veggies for a satisfying sweet-savory combo.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever you need a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or maybe swap in mozzarella? Maybe you used thighs instead of breasts?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better and smarter.

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